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Greece says reform deal can come in 10 days, but Merkel is cautious - live updates Greece says reform deal can come in 10 days, but Merkel is cautious - live updates
(35 minutes later)
2.07pm BST14:07
The Greek PM has now met with Jean-Claude Juncker....
Meeting earlier with European Commission President @JunckerEU. #euco #Greece pic.twitter.com/v6kLDMak2C
2.01pm BST14:01
Donald Tusk’s team just uploaded his statement following the Summit - here’s the conclusion:
The European Union is a partner for the long-haul.
Our partnership, as well as the Riga Summit itself, are not about dramatic decisions or taking giant steps forward. No, our relationship is built on free will, respect and equality. And our partnership will go forward step-by-step, just as the European Union has been built.
Through concrete progress on matters such as trade, energy, transport, mobility and reforms our partnership will grow increasingly closer and offer by far the best prospects for Europe as a whole.
The EU is a trusted partner for the long-haul. My remarks following the #RigaSummit: http://t.co/LTczQY1MbE. #EaP pic.twitter.com/WQQvSMU4Bt
1.51pm BST13:51
David Cameron is going to have a busy week; after hosting Jean-Claude Juncker on Monday, he will jet to Paris and Berlin for talks with Francois Hollande and Angela Merkel.
Related: Cameron to meet Juncker at Chequers in EU renegotiation 'charm offensive'
1.24pm BST13:241.24pm BST13:24
A couple of photos of David Cameron leaving the summit just landed:A couple of photos of David Cameron leaving the summit just landed:
1.16pm BST13:161.16pm BST13:16
Here’s the official statement:Here’s the official statement:
Joint Declaration of the Eastern Partnership Summit (Riga, 21-22 May 2015)Joint Declaration of the Eastern Partnership Summit (Riga, 21-22 May 2015)
1.15pm BST13:151.15pm BST13:15
And that’s it. Not a humm-dinger of a press conference.And that’s it. Not a humm-dinger of a press conference.
I think I once went to a press conference even more boring than that but I'm not sure.I think I once went to a press conference even more boring than that but I'm not sure.
1.14pm BST13:141.14pm BST13:14
Why does the declaration only talk about the European aspirations of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine?Why does the declaration only talk about the European aspirations of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine?
No-one promised that the Eastern Partnership would be a route all the way to EU membership, Tusk says. This is a long-term alliance, and we have gone as far as we could today.No-one promised that the Eastern Partnership would be a route all the way to EU membership, Tusk says. This is a long-term alliance, and we have gone as far as we could today.
1.07pm BST13:071.07pm BST13:07
.@Straujuma: #RigaSummit confirmed EU's stable and irreversible relations with #EaP countries - https://t.co/9qL29jbDnA.@Straujuma: #RigaSummit confirmed EU's stable and irreversible relations with #EaP countries - https://t.co/9qL29jbDnA
1.06pm BST13:061.06pm BST13:06
You promised good news for Georgia at this meeting - where is it?You promised good news for Georgia at this meeting - where is it?
Latvian prime minister Laimdota Straujuma replies that Georgia, and Ukraine, could be included in the visa-free programme next year, if enough progress is achieved.Latvian prime minister Laimdota Straujuma replies that Georgia, and Ukraine, could be included in the visa-free programme next year, if enough progress is achieved.
Juncker adde that he is “very optimistic” about liberalising the Visa regimes of both countries.Juncker adde that he is “very optimistic” about liberalising the Visa regimes of both countries.
It will require support from all 28 members of the EU, though.It will require support from all 28 members of the EU, though.
1.04pm BST13:041.04pm BST13:04
I see @JunckerEU & @PrebenEUspox wearing #eu2015lv ties on stage. Good good good! pic.twitter.com/h5h7HcMzuBI see @JunckerEU & @PrebenEUspox wearing #eu2015lv ties on stage. Good good good! pic.twitter.com/h5h7HcMzuB
1.02pm BST13:021.02pm BST13:02
Onto questions.Onto questions.
Was the statement held up because Azerbaijan initially refused to sign up, because of the wording on Crimea?Was the statement held up because Azerbaijan initially refused to sign up, because of the wording on Crimea?
Tusk says the EU had anticipated this problem. But he insists Azerbaijan is determined to strengthen its co-operation with the EU.Tusk says the EU had anticipated this problem. But he insists Azerbaijan is determined to strengthen its co-operation with the EU.
And are you worried that David Cameron has put the UK on a path out of Europe?And are you worried that David Cameron has put the UK on a path out of Europe?
Juncker says he doesn’t really understand the question. But he confirms that he will be visiting the UK next Monday - we will consider all the elements that could have been part of your question then, he adds.Juncker says he doesn’t really understand the question. But he confirms that he will be visiting the UK next Monday - we will consider all the elements that could have been part of your question then, he adds.
Updated at 1.03pm BSTUpdated at 1.03pm BST
12.58pm BST12:5812.58pm BST12:58
We have agreed that Energy and Transport policies will be key priorities in the years ahead, says Tusk.We have agreed that Energy and Transport policies will be key priorities in the years ahead, says Tusk.
On mobility issues... we welcome the impact that Moldova’s visa-free programme has had, says Tusk.On mobility issues... we welcome the impact that Moldova’s visa-free programme has had, says Tusk.
But what about Georgia and Ukraine, who both want their citizens to be able to enter the EU without a visa?But what about Georgia and Ukraine, who both want their citizens to be able to enter the EU without a visa?
Tusk says he and Juncker are determined to be “as ambitious as possible”, but it is up to Georgia and Ukraine to also make progress.Tusk says he and Juncker are determined to be “as ambitious as possible”, but it is up to Georgia and Ukraine to also make progress.
So no big progress on that issue.So no big progress on that issue.
12.55pm BST12:5512.55pm BST12:55
Joint Declaration on the Eastern Partnership releasedJoint Declaration on the Eastern Partnership released
The leaders have agreed a 10-page declaration: my colleague Shaun Walker just got his hands on it:The leaders have agreed a 10-page declaration: my colleague Shaun Walker just got his hands on it:
Riga summit declaration. To summarise: We reaffirm our commitment to declare the commitment to European affirmations pic.twitter.com/jjJWLKizKvRiga summit declaration. To summarise: We reaffirm our commitment to declare the commitment to European affirmations pic.twitter.com/jjJWLKizKv
12.54pm BST12:5412.54pm BST12:54
The press conference is underway now in Riga -- this live feed is running translations in English, French and Latvian.The press conference is underway now in Riga -- this live feed is running translations in English, French and Latvian.
European Council president Donald Tusk is explaining that all parties reaffirmed their joint interest in strengthening links between the EU and the six former Soviet states.European Council president Donald Tusk is explaining that all parties reaffirmed their joint interest in strengthening links between the EU and the six former Soviet states.
Those countries must be free from intimidation and conflict, and able to exercise their sovereign rights, Tusk says.Those countries must be free from intimidation and conflict, and able to exercise their sovereign rights, Tusk says.
12.50pm BST12:5012.50pm BST12:50
Hmmmm. Bloomberg is reporting that Germany’s finance minister, Wolfgang Schaeuble, has raised the issue of a parallel currency for Greece:Hmmmm. Bloomberg is reporting that Germany’s finance minister, Wolfgang Schaeuble, has raised the issue of a parallel currency for Greece:
Schaeuble said to raise possibility of Greek parallel currency. http://t.co/reZvdaq9eF pic.twitter.com/9Zko8c7jlXSchaeuble said to raise possibility of Greek parallel currency. http://t.co/reZvdaq9eF pic.twitter.com/9Zko8c7jlX
It’s attributed to “people familiar with his views”. And mentioning it exactly a ringing endorsement......It’s attributed to “people familiar with his views”. And mentioning it exactly a ringing endorsement......
#Greece: "Schaeuble mentioned the idea of parallel currencies at a recent meeting WITHOUT ENDORSING IT" says the article. Quite a nuance.#Greece: "Schaeuble mentioned the idea of parallel currencies at a recent meeting WITHOUT ENDORSING IT" says the article. Quite a nuance.
12.41pm BST12:4112.41pm BST12:41
Tick tock...Tick tock...
Waiting in Riga. At least when you wait ages for Putin you get an earthy animal metaphor at the end of it. Less sure about Tusk & JunckerWaiting in Riga. At least when you wait ages for Putin you get an earthy animal metaphor at the end of it. Less sure about Tusk & Juncker
12.34pm BST12:3412.34pm BST12:34
Politico is reporting that Jean-Claude Juncker will be dining at the UK prime minister’s country retreat, Chequers, next week, as Cameron pushes his renegotiation strategy.Politico is reporting that Jean-Claude Juncker will be dining at the UK prime minister’s country retreat, Chequers, next week, as Cameron pushes his renegotiation strategy.
Scoop: David Cameron will host private dinner Monday w/ Commission Prez Juncker at Chequers in England http://t.co/XofLXpXOKj #eureferendumScoop: David Cameron will host private dinner Monday w/ Commission Prez Juncker at Chequers in England http://t.co/XofLXpXOKj #eureferendum
12.30pm BST12:3012.30pm BST12:30
The summit is wrapping up.....The summit is wrapping up.....
#EaP #RigaSummit drawing towards an end. Press conference of @Straujuma @eucopresident @JunckerEU soon - http://t.co/6m5LNFJyxt#EaP #RigaSummit drawing towards an end. Press conference of @Straujuma @eucopresident @JunckerEU soon - http://t.co/6m5LNFJyxt
12.07pm BST12:0712.07pm BST12:07
French President Hollande told French journalists that the PMs Brexit agenda was not discussed at summit, not on agenda, or bilateralsFrench President Hollande told French journalists that the PMs Brexit agenda was not discussed at summit, not on agenda, or bilaterals
11.57am BST11:5711.57am BST11:57
Jean-Claude Juncker is also expected to meet with Alexis Tsipras in Riga today.Jean-Claude Juncker is also expected to meet with Alexis Tsipras in Riga today.
@EU_Commission chief @JunckerEU to meet with @PrimeministerGR #Tsipras on sidelines of #Riga @eu2015lv meeting to 'take stock' of progress@EU_Commission chief @JunckerEU to meet with @PrimeministerGR #Tsipras on sidelines of #Riga @eu2015lv meeting to 'take stock' of progress
As flagged up this morning, Juncker has warned that Greece can’t just be “thrown out” of the euro.As flagged up this morning, Juncker has warned that Greece can’t just be “thrown out” of the euro.
He told German news magazine Wirtschaftswoche that:He told German news magazine Wirtschaftswoche that:
[the euro’s] not just about monetary policy and economic reasons, but also the dignity of the Greeks”.[the euro’s] not just about monetary policy and economic reasons, but also the dignity of the Greeks”.
11.39am BST11:3911.39am BST11:39
We’re expecting a press conference soon with Donald Tusk (President of the European Council), Laimdota Straujuma (Latvian Prime Minister) and Jean-Claude Juncker (President of the EC) in around 10 minutes.We’re expecting a press conference soon with Donald Tusk (President of the European Council), Laimdota Straujuma (Latvian Prime Minister) and Jean-Claude Juncker (President of the EC) in around 10 minutes.
It will be streamed live here.It will be streamed live here.
11.29am BST11:2911.29am BST11:29
Reporters in Riga are tucking in:Reporters in Riga are tucking in:
Dill for lunch at Latvia's Eastern Partnership summit. Looks like shameless post-Crimea appeasement of the Kremlin pic.twitter.com/gOyTuqJHWoDill for lunch at Latvia's Eastern Partnership summit. Looks like shameless post-Crimea appeasement of the Kremlin pic.twitter.com/gOyTuqJHWo
Updated at 11.29am BSTUpdated at 11.29am BST
11.14am BST11:1411.14am BST11:14
AFP are reporting that European Commission president, Jean-Claude Juncker welcomed Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban to the summit with the words “Hi, dictator!”AFP are reporting that European Commission president, Jean-Claude Juncker welcomed Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban to the summit with the words “Hi, dictator!”
'Hello dictator,' says @JunckerEU to Viktor Orban via @lesoir http://t.co/CHRDj1xYqY pic.twitter.com/elbepbtkdU'Hello dictator,' says @JunckerEU to Viktor Orban via @lesoir http://t.co/CHRDj1xYqY pic.twitter.com/elbepbtkdU
Updated at 11.29am BSTUpdated at 11.29am BST
10.59am BST10:5910.59am BST10:59
From Riga, my colleague Rowena Mason writes that Cameron will be pushing his reform agenda at the sidelines of today’s summit - particularly with smaller countries whose leaders he meets less often.From Riga, my colleague Rowena Mason writes that Cameron will be pushing his reform agenda at the sidelines of today’s summit - particularly with smaller countries whose leaders he meets less often.
Related: David Cameron plays down hopes of quick EU dealRelated: David Cameron plays down hopes of quick EU deal
I'm meeting EU leaders at the #RigaSummit today. I plan to deliver EU reform before holding an in/out referendum by the end of 2017.I'm meeting EU leaders at the #RigaSummit today. I plan to deliver EU reform before holding an in/out referendum by the end of 2017.
10.34am BST10:3410.34am BST10:34
Tsipras: Optimistic of deal soonTsipras: Optimistic of deal soon
Helena SmithHelena Smith
Despite the cautious statements of German chancellor Angela Merkel this morning, her Greek counterpart is still saying he is “optimistic” a deal will be found that would unlock bailout funds “ soon,”Despite the cautious statements of German chancellor Angela Merkel this morning, her Greek counterpart is still saying he is “optimistic” a deal will be found that would unlock bailout funds “ soon,”
Helena Smith reports:Helena Smith reports:
The Greek government has just released the statement Alexis Tsipras made as he arrived at the EU summit. Echoing earlier pronouncements by Gavriel Sakellarides, the Greek government spokesman, Tsipras said a “long-term, viable solutions” was visible.The Greek government has just released the statement Alexis Tsipras made as he arrived at the EU summit. Echoing earlier pronouncements by Gavriel Sakellarides, the Greek government spokesman, Tsipras said a “long-term, viable solutions” was visible.
“Discussions last night with Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Francois Hollande were constructive and [held] in a very good and friendly atmosphere.“Discussions last night with Chancellor Angela Merkel and President Francois Hollande were constructive and [held] in a very good and friendly atmosphere.
I am optimistic that we can soon arrive at a stable, long-term and viable solutions with the mistakes of the past - and that Greece will return with cohesiveness to growth. I am optimistic.”I am optimistic that we can soon arrive at a stable, long-term and viable solutions with the mistakes of the past - and that Greece will return with cohesiveness to growth. I am optimistic.”
“Without the mistakes of the past” would refer to the debt-deflationary spiral that Greece says it is determined to avoid - and there is not sign of that yet.“Without the mistakes of the past” would refer to the debt-deflationary spiral that Greece says it is determined to avoid - and there is not sign of that yet.
10.28am BST10:2810.28am BST10:28
The European Union and Ukraine have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Riga, that paves the way for €1.8bn of aid. That’s on top of the €1.61bn already paid in earlier assistance.The European Union and Ukraine have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Riga, that paves the way for €1.8bn of aid. That’s on top of the €1.61bn already paid in earlier assistance.
The EU says it’s a sign of solidarity with Kiev:The EU says it’s a sign of solidarity with Kiev:
Today we send the signal to the world - #Ukraine cares about reforms and #Europe cares about Ukraine #EUUkraine #Riga pic.twitter.com/VqvkUo8HAEToday we send the signal to the world - #Ukraine cares about reforms and #Europe cares about Ukraine #EUUkraine #Riga pic.twitter.com/VqvkUo8HAE
This signature is an important milestone in the relationship between #EU and #Ukraine #EUUkraine #RigaSummit & #EaP pic.twitter.com/2Pvfg5zjuGThis signature is an important milestone in the relationship between #EU and #Ukraine #EUUkraine #RigaSummit & #EaP pic.twitter.com/2Pvfg5zjuG
Ukraine wants more than that, though. It is pushing for a path towards joining the European Union, and hopes to negotiate a deal to allow its citizens to visit the EU without a visa.Ukraine wants more than that, though. It is pushing for a path towards joining the European Union, and hopes to negotiate a deal to allow its citizens to visit the EU without a visa.
The Wall Street Journal explains:The Wall Street Journal explains:
Coming into the summit, which ends Friday afternoon, Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova were all pushing for language in the summit conclusions that would allow them to tell their citizens that painful reforms at home could eventually lead them into the European club. Ukraine and Georgia also had hoped for a clear signal that EU leaders would approve their bids for visa-free access to the bloc, a prize Moldova won last year.Coming into the summit, which ends Friday afternoon, Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova were all pushing for language in the summit conclusions that would allow them to tell their citizens that painful reforms at home could eventually lead them into the European club. Ukraine and Georgia also had hoped for a clear signal that EU leaders would approve their bids for visa-free access to the bloc, a prize Moldova won last year.
The draft summit text though, which makes no promises on EU membership.The draft summit text though, which makes no promises on EU membership.
9.54am BST09:549.54am BST09:54
Photos: Leaders in RigaPhotos: Leaders in Riga
Updated at 9.59am BSTUpdated at 9.59am BST
9.35am BST09:359.35am BST09:35
Draghi demands progress on structural reformsDraghi demands progress on structural reforms
ECB president Mario Draghi is urging eurozone governments to implement structural reforms, in a speech in Sintra, Portugal.ECB president Mario Draghi is urging eurozone governments to implement structural reforms, in a speech in Sintra, Portugal.
It’s not a new theme - Draghi acknowledges that he has raised this issue at every single ECB press conference since he took office. But he’s producing some compelling graphs to show why government need to reform labour markets to boost productivity and get Europe’s potential growth closer to America.It’s not a new theme - Draghi acknowledges that he has raised this issue at every single ECB press conference since he took office. But he’s producing some compelling graphs to show why government need to reform labour markets to boost productivity and get Europe’s potential growth closer to America.
But aren’t these political issues outside the remit of a central banker? Draghi argues not:But aren’t these political issues outside the remit of a central banker? Draghi argues not:
For members of monetary union resilience is crucial to avoid that shocks lead to consistently higher unemployment, and over time, permanent economic divergence. It therefore has direct implications for price stability, and is no less relevant for the integrity of the euro area.For members of monetary union resilience is crucial to avoid that shocks lead to consistently higher unemployment, and over time, permanent economic divergence. It therefore has direct implications for price stability, and is no less relevant for the integrity of the euro area.
This is why the ECB has frequently called for stronger common governance of structural reforms that would make resilience part of our common DNA.This is why the ECB has frequently called for stronger common governance of structural reforms that would make resilience part of our common DNA.
After all, not even Mario Draghi can save the eurozone alone:After all, not even Mario Draghi can save the eurozone alone:
Monetary policy can steer the economy back to its potential. Structural reform can raise that potential,Monetary policy can steer the economy back to its potential. Structural reform can raise that potential,
Here’s the speech: Structural Reforms, Inflation and Monetary PolicyHere’s the speech: Structural Reforms, Inflation and Monetary Policy
Updated at 9.37am BSTUpdated at 9.37am BST
9.14am BST09:149.14am BST09:14
German business morale has fallen slightly this month, in the latest sign that Europe’s largest economy is in a soft patch.German business morale has fallen slightly this month, in the latest sign that Europe’s largest economy is in a soft patch.
The business climate index calculated by IFO, the Munich-based research institution, fell to 108.5 from 108.6 in April.The business climate index calculated by IFO, the Munich-based research institution, fell to 108.5 from 108.6 in April.
Economists reckon we shouldn’t panic:Economists reckon we shouldn’t panic:
Here’s ING’s Carsten Brzeski:Here’s ING’s Carsten Brzeski:
Given the long recovery the German economy has already gone through, it is only more than normal that growth rates at some point in time will be lower than in the rest of the Eurozone, which in turn has been suffering from weak growth now for several years.Given the long recovery the German economy has already gone through, it is only more than normal that growth rates at some point in time will be lower than in the rest of the Eurozone, which in turn has been suffering from weak growth now for several years.
CHART: Today's IFO completes picture of euro-area business surveys for May. Don't panic, levels remain high. pic.twitter.com/iWteoxYV7SCHART: Today's IFO completes picture of euro-area business surveys for May. Don't panic, levels remain high. pic.twitter.com/iWteoxYV7S
8.57am BST08:578.57am BST08:57
David Cameron began his push for EU reform with a meeting with Poland’s PM, Ewa Kopacz.David Cameron began his push for EU reform with a meeting with Poland’s PM, Ewa Kopacz.
It was a “friendly but tough’ chat, according to the Polish side - a taste of the reception Cameron will get in Riga?It was a “friendly but tough’ chat, according to the Polish side - a taste of the reception Cameron will get in Riga?
"PMs #Kopacz-#Cameron talks at #RigaSummit - main topic: EU single market - friendly, but tough" via @trzaskowski_ pic.twitter.com/1iXFPFSTYd"PMs #Kopacz-#Cameron talks at #RigaSummit - main topic: EU single market - friendly, but tough" via @trzaskowski_ pic.twitter.com/1iXFPFSTYd
8.49am BST08:498.49am BST08:49
The financial markets are getting tired at the apparent lack of progress towards a Greek deal, says Jeremy Cook, chief economist of World First:The financial markets are getting tired at the apparent lack of progress towards a Greek deal, says Jeremy Cook, chief economist of World First:
Despite the Greek government’s constant assertions that a deal is just around the corner it is looking like they may have been kidding themselves as well as the markets.Despite the Greek government’s constant assertions that a deal is just around the corner it is looking like they may have been kidding themselves as well as the markets.
We can but hope for some positive noises from the non-Greek participants later in the day. For now, they are the only ones to believe.We can but hope for some positive noises from the non-Greek participants later in the day. For now, they are the only ones to believe.
8.41am BST08:418.41am BST08:41
After staying up till 1am talking last night, Angela Merkel and Alexis Tsipras are seated side-by-side again this morning:After staying up till 1am talking last night, Angela Merkel and Alexis Tsipras are seated side-by-side again this morning:
Alphabet (#Germany #Greece) bringt sie zusammen: #Kanzlerin #Merkel + #MP @Tsipras sitzen b #Rigasummit nebeneinander pic.twitter.com/GuRECElAlbAlphabet (#Germany #Greece) bringt sie zusammen: #Kanzlerin #Merkel + #MP @Tsipras sitzen b #Rigasummit nebeneinander pic.twitter.com/GuRECElAlb
8.36am BST08:368.36am BST08:36
When he took office, Alexis Tsipras vowed that he wouldn’t wear a tie to these events until he’d secured a new Greek deal.When he took office, Alexis Tsipras vowed that he wouldn’t wear a tie to these events until he’d secured a new Greek deal.
Five months on, he’s sticking to his guns - despite the risk of being grappled by EC president Juncker.Five months on, he’s sticking to his guns - despite the risk of being grappled by EC president Juncker.
Στυλιστικά tips από τον Ζαν Κλοντ Γιούνκερ στον Πρωθυπουργό κατά την προσέλευση στη Σύνοδο Κορυφής #Tsipras #Juncker pic.twitter.com/CGltiNWGUSΣτυλιστικά tips από τον Ζαν Κλοντ Γιούνκερ στον Πρωθυπουργό κατά την προσέλευση στη Σύνοδο Κορυφής #Tsipras #Juncker pic.twitter.com/CGltiNWGUS
Donald Tusk doesn’t look terribly amused....Donald Tusk doesn’t look terribly amused....
8.33am BST08:338.33am BST08:33
No pressure, Mr Cameron:No pressure, Mr Cameron:
PM starts Renegotiation: We need immigration control, to return powers to Westminster from fishing to energy, & cut £60m a day cost, or OutPM starts Renegotiation: We need immigration control, to return powers to Westminster from fishing to energy, & cut £60m a day cost, or Out
8.30am BST08:308.30am BST08:30
The summit is getting underway.The summit is getting underway.
European Parliament president Martin Schulz says it’s a “crucial” opportunity to bring more stability to the former Soviet states.European Parliament president Martin Schulz says it’s a “crucial” opportunity to bring more stability to the former Soviet states.
#EasternPartnership Summit about to start. Crucial meeting for better, safer & more predictable future for the region & all continent#EasternPartnership Summit about to start. Crucial meeting for better, safer & more predictable future for the region & all continent
Our Europe editor, Ian Traynor, doesn’t share his optimism:Our Europe editor, Ian Traynor, doesn’t share his optimism:
#RigaSummit last one was a disaster (vilnius). this one just depressing. an exhibition of fear weakness timidity#RigaSummit last one was a disaster (vilnius). this one just depressing. an exhibition of fear weakness timidity
8.23am BST08:238.23am BST08:23
#EaP #RigaSummit HoD familyphoto with @alexstubb representing Finland pic.twitter.com/YAByfgZ3qM#EaP #RigaSummit HoD familyphoto with @alexstubb representing Finland pic.twitter.com/YAByfgZ3qM
8.22am BST08:228.22am BST08:22
PM will visit Paris and Berlin next week to meet Chancellor Merkel and President Hollande to kickstart EU renegotiation process in earnestPM will visit Paris and Berlin next week to meet Chancellor Merkel and President Hollande to kickstart EU renegotiation process in earnest
8.15am BST08:158.15am BST08:15
Cameron: I'm determined to reform the EUCameron: I'm determined to reform the EU
David Cameron arrived in Riga, banging the drum for a renegotiated settlement with the EU.David Cameron arrived in Riga, banging the drum for a renegotiated settlement with the EU.
There will be lots of noise and ups and down in the months ahead, the UK prime minister predicted.There will be lots of noise and ups and down in the months ahead, the UK prime minister predicted.
“You’ll hear one day this is possible, the next day something else is impossible...“You’ll hear one day this is possible, the next day something else is impossible...
“But one thing throughout all of this will be constant and that is my determination to deliver for the British people a reform of the EU so they get a proper choice in that in/out referendum that we’ll hold before the end of 2017.“But one thing throughout all of this will be constant and that is my determination to deliver for the British people a reform of the EU so they get a proper choice in that in/out referendum that we’ll hold before the end of 2017.
This is Cameron’s first chance to lobby EU leaders face-to-face about reforms since winning the general election a fortnight ago.This is Cameron’s first chance to lobby EU leaders face-to-face about reforms since winning the general election a fortnight ago.
This referendum will now dominate UK politics, as my colleague Martin Kettle explains:This referendum will now dominate UK politics, as my colleague Martin Kettle explains:
This will be a parliament of two halves: before the EU referendum and after it. Everything in British politics now hinges on the European issue, including the union with Scotland. But Europe’s hour has now arrived. Europe will be the centrepiece of the speech from the throne on Wednesday.This will be a parliament of two halves: before the EU referendum and after it. Everything in British politics now hinges on the European issue, including the union with Scotland. But Europe’s hour has now arrived. Europe will be the centrepiece of the speech from the throne on Wednesday.
The referendum bill will be published within hours. Cameron and his negotiators are in Riga talking to EU leaders this week. Germany is signalling cooperation within bounds. And all the signs are that the government wants the referendum early, possibly as soon as September 2016 – which is only 16 months away. All other legislative and political business, with the exception of the Scottish devolution plans, will be fitted around the needs of the referendum.....The referendum bill will be published within hours. Cameron and his negotiators are in Riga talking to EU leaders this week. Germany is signalling cooperation within bounds. And all the signs are that the government wants the referendum early, possibly as soon as September 2016 – which is only 16 months away. All other legislative and political business, with the exception of the Scottish devolution plans, will be fitted around the needs of the referendum.....
David Cameron faces sudden death over Europe. He cannot fail | Martin Kettle http://t.co/pgGyI2fqID (@martinkettle)David Cameron faces sudden death over Europe. He cannot fail | Martin Kettle http://t.co/pgGyI2fqID (@martinkettle)
8.01am BST08:018.01am BST08:01
7.52am BST07:527.52am BST07:52
Merkel: Still a lot of work to doMerkel: Still a lot of work to do
Angela Merkel has arrived at the EU summit in Riga, and made it clear that last night’s meeting with Alexis Tsipras did not deliver a big breakthrough.Angela Merkel has arrived at the EU summit in Riga, and made it clear that last night’s meeting with Alexis Tsipras did not deliver a big breakthrough.
Greece must keep working “very, very intensively” with its creditors, she told reporters when asked about the three-way meeting with Francois Hollande.Greece must keep working “very, very intensively” with its creditors, she told reporters when asked about the three-way meeting with Francois Hollande.
“It was a very friendly, constructive exchange, but it’s also clear that there must be more work with the three institutions. There is a lot to do.”“It was a very friendly, constructive exchange, but it’s also clear that there must be more work with the three institutions. There is a lot to do.”
“France and Germany have offered Greece and the Greek Prime Minister that whenever there are questions to be discussed, whenever there is help to be given, to do so but the conclusion needs to be found with the three institutions and there needs to be very, very intensive work.”“France and Germany have offered Greece and the Greek Prime Minister that whenever there are questions to be discussed, whenever there is help to be given, to do so but the conclusion needs to be found with the three institutions and there needs to be very, very intensive work.”
So once again, Athens’ optimism isn’t really shared by the rest of the eurozone.So once again, Athens’ optimism isn’t really shared by the rest of the eurozone.
7.41am BST07:417.41am BST07:41
Europe would be riven with currency wars if it wasn’t protected by the euro, says European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker as he arrived at the Riga summit.Europe would be riven with currency wars if it wasn’t protected by the euro, says European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker as he arrived at the Riga summit.
*JUNCKER SAYS CAN'T SIMPLY THROW GREECE OUT OF EURO: WIWO*JUNCKER SAYS CAN'T SIMPLY THROW GREECE OUT OF EURO: WIWO
If we didn't had the #euro, there'd be currency wars in Europe: Juncker ~@wiwoIf we didn't had the #euro, there'd be currency wars in Europe: Juncker ~@wiwo
7.38am BST07:387.38am BST07:38
Dombrovskis: Greece Must Present Comprehensive Reform PackageDombrovskis: Greece Must Present Comprehensive Reform Package
The Greek negotiations must speed up, declared Valdis Dombrovskis, European commissioner for the euro, as he arrived in Riga.The Greek negotiations must speed up, declared Valdis Dombrovskis, European commissioner for the euro, as he arrived in Riga.
Dombrovskis put the onus on Greece to show its creditors a proper, detailed, reform plan.Dombrovskis put the onus on Greece to show its creditors a proper, detailed, reform plan.
EU’s Dombrovskis Says Progress In Greece Talks Needs To Step Up -- BBG - Greece Must Present Comprehensive Reform PackageEU’s Dombrovskis Says Progress In Greece Talks Needs To Step Up -- BBG - Greece Must Present Comprehensive Reform Package
EU’s Dombrovskis: Not Discussing Debt Writeoff For GreeceEU’s Dombrovskis: Not Discussing Debt Writeoff For Greece
7.37am BST07:377.37am BST07:37
Meeting yesterday with Chancellor #Merkel and President @fhollande. #Greece pic.twitter.com/pjhz0SLkc0Meeting yesterday with Chancellor #Merkel and President @fhollande. #Greece pic.twitter.com/pjhz0SLkc0
7.35am BST07:357.35am BST07:35
Greek spokesman: Deal can be sealed in 10 daysGreek spokesman: Deal can be sealed in 10 days
There’s a mood of optimism from Athens this morning following last night’s meeting between Tsipras, Merkel and Hollande.There’s a mood of optimism from Athens this morning following last night’s meeting between Tsipras, Merkel and Hollande.
Government spokesman Gabriel Sakellaridis has just declared that the Greek administration expects to reach a cash-for-reforms deal with its creditors in the next 10 days.Government spokesman Gabriel Sakellaridis has just declared that the Greek administration expects to reach a cash-for-reforms deal with its creditors in the next 10 days.
“We think conditions have matured for (talks) to progress further and in the next 10 days, in May, for the deal to be sealed”.“We think conditions have matured for (talks) to progress further and in the next 10 days, in May, for the deal to be sealed”.
That would take us to the end of May; when Greece must pay pensions and wages.That would take us to the end of May; when Greece must pay pensions and wages.
Sakellaridis told Skai TV that this would allow Athens to meet all its payments in June (it also faces €1.5bn in repayments to the IMF next month), and even join the new eurozone QE programme.Sakellaridis told Skai TV that this would allow Athens to meet all its payments in June (it also faces €1.5bn in repayments to the IMF next month), and even join the new eurozone QE programme.
“Inclusion in this European Central Bank quantitative easing programme falls within the framework of priorities of the Greek government.”“Inclusion in this European Central Bank quantitative easing programme falls within the framework of priorities of the Greek government.”
But first they need that deal -- and Greece says it isn’t caving in on its “red-lines”...But first they need that deal -- and Greece says it isn’t caving in on its “red-lines”...
GREECE WON'T COMPROMISE ON LABOR REFORMS, PENSIONS: SPOKESMANGREECE WON'T COMPROMISE ON LABOR REFORMS, PENSIONS: SPOKESMAN
Updated at 7.36am BSTUpdated at 7.36am BST
7.35am BST07:357.35am BST07:35
The Agenda: EU leaders gather in RigaThe Agenda: EU leaders gather in Riga
Good morning, and welcome to our rolling coverage of the world economy, the financial markets, the eurozone and business.Good morning, and welcome to our rolling coverage of the world economy, the financial markets, the eurozone and business.
We’re watching events in Latvia today, where EU leaders are attending the Eastern Partnership summit Riga.We’re watching events in Latvia today, where EU leaders are attending the Eastern Partnership summit Riga.
Officially, the meeting is meant to build closer ties between the EU and Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine, and make progress towards de-escalating conflict in the region.Officially, the meeting is meant to build closer ties between the EU and Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine, and make progress towards de-escalating conflict in the region.
Eastern Partnership summit, Riga, 21-22/05/2015Eastern Partnership summit, Riga, 21-22/05/2015
But two issues are casting a shadow -- Greece’s bailout talks, and Britain’s push for renegotiation.But two issues are casting a shadow -- Greece’s bailout talks, and Britain’s push for renegotiation.
The summit is starting now, following yesterday’s working dinner -- which preceded a meeting between Greek PM Alexis Tsipras, German chancellor Angela Merkel and French president Francois Hollande.The summit is starting now, following yesterday’s working dinner -- which preceded a meeting between Greek PM Alexis Tsipras, German chancellor Angela Merkel and French president Francois Hollande.
En marge du Sommet du Partenariat Oriental à Riga, @fhollande s'est entretenu avec A.Merkel et A.Tsipras #Riga2015 pic.twitter.com/jxmG6DMhhfEn marge du Sommet du Partenariat Oriental à Riga, @fhollande s'est entretenu avec A.Merkel et A.Tsipras #Riga2015 pic.twitter.com/jxmG6DMhhf
As we covered last night in yesterday’s liveblog, the talks were apparently ‘friendly and constructive’, but without a major breakthrough.As we covered last night in yesterday’s liveblog, the talks were apparently ‘friendly and constructive’, but without a major breakthrough.
AFP explains:AFP explains:
After almost two hours of talks the three “agreed on the need for the Greek authorities to keep working with the three institutions”, the aide said, referring to Athens’ “troika” of creditors - the European Union, the European Central Bank, and International Monetary Fund.After almost two hours of talks the three “agreed on the need for the Greek authorities to keep working with the three institutions”, the aide said, referring to Athens’ “troika” of creditors - the European Union, the European Central Bank, and International Monetary Fund.
A Greek government source added that Merkel and Hollande “understood the need for a long-term deal” and said they were prepared to “personally contribute, if needed, to conclude the agreement soon.”A Greek government source added that Merkel and Hollande “understood the need for a long-term deal” and said they were prepared to “personally contribute, if needed, to conclude the agreement soon.”
EU leaders will be meeting all morning in Riga, with a press conference at 1.45pm local time or 11.45am BST.EU leaders will be meeting all morning in Riga, with a press conference at 1.45pm local time or 11.45am BST.
We’ll be watching Riga, and tracking all the main events through the day...We’ll be watching Riga, and tracking all the main events through the day...